Force India confirms Stroll

Force India confirms Stroll

Force India confirms Stroll

Racing Point Force India has officially confirmed that Lance Stroll will join its race team next year, replacing Esteban Ocon.

The Canadian’s move to the team from Williams, where he spent his first two F1 seasons, had been anticipated since the takeover of Force India this summer by a consortium of investors led by his father, Lawrence Stroll. According to the team, “Lance has pledged his commitment to the team as part of a long-term deal.” He will partner Sergio Perez in 2019.

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“I’m pleased that we can finally confirm Lance’s arrival to race alongside Sergio next year,” said team principal Otmar Szafnauer. “It gives us an exciting line-up with the perfect blend of youth, talent, and experience.

“Lance is only 20 and already has two years of Formula 1 experience under his belt, as well as a podium finish and a front row start. We see huge potential in Lance and believe we can create an environment in which he can flourish.”

Stroll finished 18th in the 2018 driver standings after scoring six of Williams’ seven points this season. He made his Force India test debut earlier this week during the post-race test in Abu Dhabi (pictured).

Image by Zak Mauger/LAT

“This is the beginning of an incredibly exciting journey in my Formula 1 career,” Stroll said. “I look forward to working alongside a successful team with a great culture. It’s a new challenge and I am excited to embrace this new opportunity!”

Stroll’s confirmation at Force India closes the books on open seats in F1 for next year.